PanelPicker: Tapping into the Wisdom of the SXSW Community

THE 2016 SXSW PANELPICKER ENTRY PROCESS IS NOW CLOSED. COMMUNITY VOTING BEGINS AUGUST 10.

PanelPicker® is an easy online process that allows the SXSW community to have a voice in what sessions are scheduled at the SXSW Film Festival. First launched in 2007, the PanelPicker allows the community to submit, review, comment and vote on the speaking proposals that they want to see become a part of the event.

The Application Process

During the open application process, we encourage the community to upload proposals for panels, solo presentations, workshops, etc. The application process is simple: visit PanelPicker.sxsw.com, select SXSW Film Conference, read the PanelPicker FAQ and fill out the form. On August 10, 2015, all ideas received will be posted online for the community to vote on which proposals they think are the best fit for the March event.

Please take a few minutes to to review entry tips and information below.

The Voting Process

During the voting process, we ask the SXSW community to weigh in on the proposals we have received for the upcoming season. Go to the PanelPicker, create an account and get ready to vote for the proposals that you want to see in March. Voting begins August 10 and ends September 4, 2015. Each voter can vote once per proposal. Don't forget to leave a constructive comment about what you do or do not like about the proposals you vote on.

The Decision Process

While voting from the community is important, these totals are not the only factor in deciding SXSW programming. Also playing a large role in the decision-making process is the SXSW Advisory Boards and the SXSW staff. As illustrated by the graph at the top, each of these three channels informs a percentage in determining the content lineup.

The Competition

As the community continues to grow, in both size and significance, competition for panel slots in the 2016 SXSW Film Conference lineup is going to be tough. However, whatever the outcome, SXSW will be the place to be in March, providing unparalleled access to the expertise of the innovators, creatives and forward-thinkers that make the SXSW Film Conference and Festival such a powerful, influential event.